On this day (May 19) in 2013, Newcastle United ended a miserable season with a home defeat to Arsenal. The Magpies lost 1-0 in front of more than 52,000 supporters at St James’ Park, finishing the campaign just two places above the relegation zone.
Newcastle held Arsenal to a goalless draw until the 52nd minute when Laurent Koscielny struck. The French centre-back volleyed in from close range after a header fell into his path and they held on for the win.
Alan Pardew was manager and made three chances to swing the game in Newcastle’s favour, but it didn’t work. The Magpies ended the season in 16th with 41 points from 38 games, having lost 50% of their matches.
Newcastle aren’t faring a lot better presently. They sit 17th in the table with 39 points from 36 games with 17 defeats to their name. Although the Magpies are safe from the drop, there are a lot of similarities with how this season has gone.
Newcastle will face Sheffield United and Fulham in their final two games, both of which sides have already been relegated, so they might have a strong finish.
